My first few months of retirement from full-time work have been great. My freedom from the weekday commute and office cubicle interruptions gave me strength and a sense of empowerment. Our portable air conditioner provided our living room with the needed comfort during the sticky heat waves.

In a previous post, I mentioned the long overdue train trip in June to the east coast with one of my sisters. In another blog, I documented a joyful family reunion road trip in August, accompanied by one of my adult children. In early September, I enjoyed meetups with former coworkers downtown.

It is now the first day of Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. I can acknowledge and welcome this transition to kinder temperatures, colourful foliage and the opportunities to cook delicious meals on the stove more often.

I am saddened and disturbed by news of continued natural disasters, civil unrest, up-coming elections drama, cross-border invasions, and diabolical electronic warfare tactics in the Middle East. I am concerned that the instability in some regions will spill over into our comparably peaceful existence.

I am determined to hug loved ones and perform more acts of kindness towards others.

I have enjoyed my relaxed, peaceful morning routines despite being howled awake by the geriatric Tabby Cat. She is a frequent recipient of patience and kindness. She receives ample care from the local animal hospital.

I enjoy my creature comforts, weekly commitments and social engagements in my community and my Rotary club. I am exploring farther within my community where most services and goods are available within walking distance. I don’t need a vehicle with the expenses and emissions involved.

I recently purchased a pair of those Skecher Slip-in sneakers. They are indeed easy to put on instead of bending and fumbling with shoelaces, but don’t provide good support for longer walks.

My next travel adventures within Canada will have to wait until next Spring, once I have a handle on my retirement income and expenses.

Thank you for reading along. May your Canadian Autumn be graced with beautiful colours, good companions and tasty treats.

T